The mountain kingfisher is a species of bird in the subfamily Halcyoninae in the family Alcedinidae. Adult males are 21–24 cm (8.3–9.4 in) long, and have a rufous head and underparts, greenish-blue upperparts, a dark blue tail, and black flight feathers. They also have dark neck patches and loral patches. Females have dark crowns and the neck patches join at the nape. It is similar to the yellow-billed kingfisher, but can be distinguished by its larger size and a proportionally larger bill, along with a dark ridge along its culmen.
Region
New Guinea Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in montane and submontane forests across the central ranges of New Guinea, including primary mossy forest, forest edges, and mid-elevation secondary growth. Frequently uses shaded interior perches a few meters above the ground and hunts along trails, ridges, and steep slopes. It is less tied to open water than many kingfishers, occurring far from streams within dense forest. Where ranges overlap, it replaces the yellow-billed kingfisher at higher elevations and cooler, wetter habitats.
Altitude Range
800–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A highland specialist of New Guinea, the mountain kingfisher is larger and heavier-billed than the similar yellow-billed kingfisher and shows a distinct dark ridge along the culmen. It often nests in arboreal termite mounds or earthen banks within forest. Despite the name, it feeds mostly on land-dwelling prey rather than fish. Its clear, piping whistles carry well through mossy montane forests.
Mountain kingfisher feeding
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short, direct flights with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, perched quietly while scanning the forest floor and understory. During breeding, pairs maintain territories and nest in arboreal termite mounds or in earthen banks. Both adults participate in incubation and feeding of the young. Outside breeding, it remains secretive within dense forest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, piping whistles, often delivered in measured phrases that may accelerate slightly. Calls carry through the forest and are frequently given from mid-canopy perches at dawn and early morning.
